Writers Circle

You might have a powerful message, but if it’s not compelling, it won’t land. In this episode, Will sits down with fellow editor and coworker Drew Dixon, executive editor at WaterBrook and Multnomah. Drawing inspiration from Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech, Drew unpacks six key elements that make any message more compelling. Whether you're writing a book, a blog, or a pitch, this episode delivers clear, actionable insights to strengthen your craft. Hi! I’m Will and I’m an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there’s no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Ever feel like giving up creative control means giving up your voice? In this Real-Time, Real-Talk episode, I sit down with co-authors Kristen Wetherell and Sarah Walton—two writers in the thick of crafting their second book together. We unpack the tension every writer faces when someone else enters the creative process: the edits, the pushback, the shared vision. Kristen and Sarah show what it looks like to co-write with grace, humility, and deep friendship. Even if you never co-author a book, this conversation will help you navigate the hard but holy work of collaboration. Hi! I’m Will and I’m an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there’s no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle. Join Will's newsletter: writerscircle.co Substack: https://willparkeranderson.substack.com/ Instagram: @willparkeranderson

Trevin Wax, an insightful author and columnist known for his fresh takes on cultural issues and Christian living, dives into effective writing habits. He discusses the art of idea generation and how reading fuels creativity. Trevin shares practical tips for maintaining consistency in writing and spirituality, especially during personal transitions. The conversation touches on separating writing from editing and the role of newsletters in engaging audiences. His inspiring journey underscores the importance of structured routines and adapting writing styles for different platforms.

In this engaging conversation, Ashley Hales, editorial director at Christianity Today and author of 'Finding Holy in the Suburbs', emphasizes the importance of sustained attention for writers. She discusses how slowing down can enhance creativity and connect personal experiences with audience interests. Ashley also tackles managing the inner critic and explores the vital relationship between reading and writing. She invites listeners to honor their unique processes and find beauty in the everyday, inspiring writers to embrace authenticity in their craft.

In this engaging discussion, Ruslan KD, artist, entrepreneur, and YouTuber, shares his exhilarating journey into the world of publishing. He reflects on the rollercoaster of emotions faced by first-time authors, from thrilling book deals to midnight manuscript sessions. Ruslan also delves into the joys of music, humorously revealing hidden talents, including a freestyle rap challenge. Throughout, he emphasizes the significance of storytelling and the interplay of personal experiences in crafting compelling narratives.

Patrick Miller, a Pastor at The Crossing and co-author of Truth Over Tribe, shares insights on navigating the tricky waters of writing about culture. He speaks candidly about the rejection process, emphasizing it's part of growth. The importance of collaboration shines through as he discusses co-writing and feedback. Miller also delves into engaging storytelling, the journey of finding the right book title, and the resilience needed in the face of publishing challenges. With humor and heart, he inspires fellow writers to embrace the madness of their craft.

Feeling stuck trying to grow your platform—and not sure what actually works? You’re not alone. Building a platform can feel like shouting into the void. But today’s guest, Kathleen Kerr of Alive Literary, brings clarity with a tool she calls "The Platform Pyramid"—a fresh, strategic approach that actually makes sense. No gimmicks, no burnout. Just smart steps to grow your audience with purpose. Hi! I’m Will and I’m an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there’s no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle.

It’s easy to forget your readers are human when you’re chasing clicks, likes, or a book deal. In this powerful episode, author and thought leader Andy Crouch helps writers reframe their work with one big reminder: your readers are image-bearers. He unpacks what it means to write with dignity in the digital age—and drops a stunning metaphor about music and writing that just might change how you approach your craft. Hi! I’m Will and I’m an editor and writing coach, here to help you get the message burning in your heart onto the page and into the world. At Writers Circle, there’s no cool kids—just fellow learners. We exist to make writing feel a little less lonely and a lot more doable. Welcome to our circle.

It’s easy to lose yourself in the pursuit of success. We incessantly check Instagram. Or Substack. We feel less-than, comparing ourselves to others. When our content hits, we like it一maybe a bit too much. We write about God, but inside, we feel hollow. Like we’re faking it. It takes honesty to admit this. And here’s the thing: we all feel it. No exceptions. Rather than pretending it’s not a struggle, today’s guest candidly shares about her wrestle with fame, and how she keeps her soul healthy in the middle of it all.     In part two of this interview with Jackie Hill Perry, she explains to senior editor Will Parker Anderson:   - Two things every writer should pay close attention to - The importance of private friendship in the social media age - What to do when you’re tired and feel like you’re faking it - How to embrace weakness, not run from it   Jackie’s wisdom will equip you to navigate your own complicated relationship with platform. To ask good questions. To be in community. And above all, to abide in Jesus.        EPISODE LINKS   Subscribe to Will’s weekly newsletter: writerscircle.co Please rate this podcast: Apple | Spotify Will’s Instagram: @willparkeranderson Will’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willparkeranderson/  

There’s a problem with publishing. It feels like quantity trumps quality. Those with big platforms get book deals. Meanwhile, many who have something worthwhile to say get ignored. But it’s not all bad news. Today’s guest, Jackie Hill Perry, proves it’s possible to have a massive following and still deliver powerful content. She explains to senior editor Will Parker Anderson how she hopes the industry will change in favor of those with something to say一regardless of their platform numbers. As a master communicator, Jackie unpacks:   How to discern if you should write a book How to balance creativity and clarity Why the grueling work of writing a book is worth it  How to choose a book topic How to protect your voice in the editing process By the end of this episode, you’ll worry less about the size of your platform. You’ll be free to write from the heart. And thanks to Jackie’s wisdom, you’ll save time focusing on what matters.        EPISODE LINKS   Subscribe to Will’s weekly newsletter: writerscircle.co Please rate this podcast: Apple | Spotify Will’s Instagram: @willparkeranderson Will’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willparkeranderson/